In recent years, there has been a growing trend of distracted walking. This is the practice of walking while using a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet. Distracted walking can be dangerous, as it can lead to pedestrians being injured in accidents.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted walking is a factor in an estimated 15% of pedestrian accidents. These accidents can result in serious injuries, including broken bones, head injuries, and even death.
There are many different ways that distracted walking can lead to an accident. For example, pedestrians who are texting or talking on the phone may not be paying attention to their surroundings and may not see oncoming traffic. They may also be more likely to step off the curb without looking, or to walk into the street without being aware of their surroundings.
In addition to the dangers to pedestrians, distracted walking can also be a hazard to drivers. Drivers who are not paying attention to the road may not see a pedestrian who is crossing the street, or they may not be able to stop in time to avoid an accident.
Driver Safety Tips
If you are a driver, there are also a few things you can do to avoid hitting a distracted pedestrian:
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch for pedestrians.
- Slow down and be prepared to stop for pedestrians.
- Do not text or talk on the phone while driving.
Pedestrian Safety Tips
If you are a pedestrian, there are a few things you can do to avoid being injured in a distracted walking accident:
- Put your phone away when you are walking.
- Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of oncoming traffic.
- Look both ways before crossing the street.
- Use crosswalks and obey traffic signals.
Here are some additional tips for avoiding distracted walking accidents:
- If you must use your phone while walking, find a safe place to stop and do so.
- Keep your phone in your pocket or bag when you are crossing the street.
- Be aware of your surroundings and make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street.
- Walk on the sidewalk whenever possible.
- Be aware of hazards such as uneven surfaces, potholes, and construction zones.
By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of being injured in a distracted walking accident.
Published on behalf of O’Connor, Runckel and O’Malley LLP
